Our Director

Meet Our Director - Ian Lushey

Our MD did his musical training in classical piano starting at the age of 9 and completed all the grade exams. His first singing experience was in 1977 when Val Pyers from The Melbourne Chorale was scouting for singers to complete a large chorus to do the Berlioz Requiem. Ian was at Burwood Teachers College (now Deakin University) at the time and answered the call.

He sang with the Chorale at various events over the years until September 1994 when Barbara Hoskins from the Sweet Adelines visited Allans Music where Ian managed the keyboard department. A brief mention of singing had Barbara suggest that Ian get in touch with a group of men who sing in Doncaster East on Monday nights. The enthusiasm and friendliness of the Melbournaires together with the skills of the then director Bill Albrecht made sure that Ian came back each Monday night to learn some more about this musical style.

Ian was truly hooked in 1995 when he joined a quartet with Steve Carnie, David Buck and Arthur Wills. Together they had a ball singing at various places and also competing in the national competition, finishing in the top ten placements. The energy and good feeling created by in-tune, quartet singing is something that should be experienced by everyone. Ian currently sings lead with the Six Foot Four quartet.

Ian has been the Melbournaires director since 2002 and considers it an honour to be able to help Melbourne’s only barbershop chorus achieve it’s musical goals.

Ian has attended several training courses for musical directors both here in Australia and in the USA. He is highly regarded in the barbershop fraternity for his musical ability and his skill as a director.

Join our Mailing List

Sign up for our newsletter to receive the latest news and event postings.